Less than two weeks after the Government announced that it had given digital cable television provider, Flow, an islandwide licence to operate, the company has announced that it has acquired another small rural cable service provider.

Flow, the brand name for Columbus Communications, announced on Friday that it has acquired the assets of Matrix Entertainment and Communication Company Ltd., which is based in Hanover. Flow has indicated that it will offer its all-digital cable service to the subscribers of Matrix as of October 1.

Director of marketing, Jean McPherson, said in a press statement that Matrix's "customers will soon have access to Flow's all-digital network which will provide unparalleled crystal-clear reception, flexible package options and many value-added services".

The acquisition of Matrix marks the fourth cable company to be acquired by Flow to date. It acquired SAUCE Communications in June, 2006, and D&L Satellite and Communications Network Ltd., based in Kingston, and Northern Cable and Communication Network serving Ocho Rios, St. Ann's Bay and surrounding areas, earlier this year.

Other services offered

In addition to cable television service, Flow offers high-speed Internet and digital landline telephone service through a single line. These services will also be introduced to communities on a phased basis.

Flow currently supplies cable television service in Kingston and St. Andrew, St. Ann and St. Mary.

McPherson has indicated that the company has a four-year timetable in which to roll out its full slate of services across the entire island.

business @gleanerjm.com